I was looking forward to Our Flag Means Death ever since I first heard about it and that Taika Waititi was involved. This series is about a wealthy aristocrat who leaves his privileged life and family to become a pirate. He's called the gentleman pirate for the way he treats his crew and how he doesn't want to use any violence. What follows is one hilarious moment after another. The writing and character development is what makes this show so good. You really come to care for each of these characters and what happens to them. This is one of the most original and unique shows I've ever seen. I'm already waiting for next season to come out.
830 Reviews
I'm joining the hype
Duveteux11 January 2023
I came as a fan of anything Rhys and Taika have done before (and hoping for a Jemaine cameo) but truly this is unlike anything they've done before and I don't think you'd have to be a fan of anything previous to like this. (There's no Jemaine cameo, minus one point!).
I also came for a queer pirate love story and boy did this deliver in a surprising way. Maybe the best thing about it is that there is no erotic element to the love Stede and Ed develop onscreen - not that I wouldn't want to see Rhys and Taika in an erotic embrace! But the absence of lust makes this quite a rare depiction of gay love on screen. It's really beautiful and the viewer is just witnessing two people realise over the series they ultimately just need each other to be happy and that's just doggarn adorable.
Comedy wise I agree with some reviews that the comediens are not used to their best abilities. It's not side splitting, but it is still thoroughly entertaining.
I am really nervous having read the true story of Stede Bonnet what a second series would bring... I'd love for there to be one and would also hate for it to be too close to the truth. I hope if there is one it goes further down the route of fancy and also allows a beautiful gay love story to have an even rarer happy ending.
I also came for a queer pirate love story and boy did this deliver in a surprising way. Maybe the best thing about it is that there is no erotic element to the love Stede and Ed develop onscreen - not that I wouldn't want to see Rhys and Taika in an erotic embrace! But the absence of lust makes this quite a rare depiction of gay love on screen. It's really beautiful and the viewer is just witnessing two people realise over the series they ultimately just need each other to be happy and that's just doggarn adorable.
Comedy wise I agree with some reviews that the comediens are not used to their best abilities. It's not side splitting, but it is still thoroughly entertaining.
I am really nervous having read the true story of Stede Bonnet what a second series would bring... I'd love for there to be one and would also hate for it to be too close to the truth. I hope if there is one it goes further down the route of fancy and also allows a beautiful gay love story to have an even rarer happy ending.
Such a fun show!
Supermanfan-1323 February 2023
Our Flag Means Death was a lot funnier than I was expecting. The entire cast were all fantastic and were led by the incredibly talented Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby. Both were perfectly cast as I can't think of two actors more suited for their roles than these two in this show. I have to admit I wasn't that into it at first but I stuck with it and by the third episode I was hooked. The episodes are only around 30min so it doesn't take too long to get through the season. I actually binged the entire first season over a weekend. I'm glad this was already renewed for a second season because I want to see more of this.
AMAZING
erinsdodge8 April 2022
It's SO GOOD!!
The show is hilarious, weird, and ridiculous, with genuinely thrilling action and adventure, brilliant plots, and wonderful characters...
...and it was also poignant, meaningful, and heartbreaking to a degree that completely knocked me out
Multiple gay & non-binary characters existing, being hilarious and interesting and multi-faceted... and to have those stories and relationships centered in an adventure setting... Man... it HEALED something in me- it felt SO amazing to see.
Honestly, it really floored me; I've never seen anything quite like it.
Do yourself a favor and go in spoiler-free; it's so delightful to watch unfold, and I'm craving season 2.
The show is hilarious, weird, and ridiculous, with genuinely thrilling action and adventure, brilliant plots, and wonderful characters...
...and it was also poignant, meaningful, and heartbreaking to a degree that completely knocked me out
Multiple gay & non-binary characters existing, being hilarious and interesting and multi-faceted... and to have those stories and relationships centered in an adventure setting... Man... it HEALED something in me- it felt SO amazing to see.
Honestly, it really floored me; I've never seen anything quite like it.
Do yourself a favor and go in spoiler-free; it's so delightful to watch unfold, and I'm craving season 2.
A comedy turned character study with a huge heart beneath it all
lsaytl5 April 2022
This show feels so unique. It has a kind of humor that fans of Neil Gaiman or Terry Pratchett will appreciate, and it manages to deliver a beautiful story full of heart and soul.
It starts out as a comedy, but what at first look like just funny character quirks progressively turn into something deeper, eliciting more complex explorations of these characters' psyche and feelings. For me, the last episodes become a character study. It pays off everything it has set up and rewards attention and understanding by the viewer. The characters are built very intentfully since minute 1, and it all comes together in the end (of course, I'm referring to the main characters; side characters remain flatter, but you can't really hold that against them. Time is limited after all).
Darby and Waititi have a wonderful chemistry together, and it is delightful to watch them play off each other. They truly sell their characters and their relationship.
And can we mention the cinematography? The lighting?? Those backlit shots??? Truly a treat for the eyes.
Lastly, on a more subjective note, Our Flag Means Death has made me feel so many things, so intensely. It is such an inspiring piece of art, and you can tell how much heart went into it. And for me, it delivers with flying colours. My most sincerest 'Thank you' to everyone who helped make this show a reality.
It starts out as a comedy, but what at first look like just funny character quirks progressively turn into something deeper, eliciting more complex explorations of these characters' psyche and feelings. For me, the last episodes become a character study. It pays off everything it has set up and rewards attention and understanding by the viewer. The characters are built very intentfully since minute 1, and it all comes together in the end (of course, I'm referring to the main characters; side characters remain flatter, but you can't really hold that against them. Time is limited after all).
Darby and Waititi have a wonderful chemistry together, and it is delightful to watch them play off each other. They truly sell their characters and their relationship.
And can we mention the cinematography? The lighting?? Those backlit shots??? Truly a treat for the eyes.
Lastly, on a more subjective note, Our Flag Means Death has made me feel so many things, so intensely. It is such an inspiring piece of art, and you can tell how much heart went into it. And for me, it delivers with flying colours. My most sincerest 'Thank you' to everyone who helped make this show a reality.
A Beautiful and Comedic Character Study
kcfonte27 March 2022
Stede Bonnet and his lovable pirate crew are absolutely delightful. Not one character is lacking. There's so much love built and baked into this show, and it shines through and through. The acting, the costumes, the sets, the plot, the soundtrack, all marvelous.
I for one am deeply touched by the earnest optimism in this show, and am entirely grateful that it exists.
I for one am deeply touched by the earnest optimism in this show, and am entirely grateful that it exists.
a truly unique show
caitbubbles30 March 2022
This is one of the truly unique shows I have seen in a long time. So much care and love went into the creation of it and the commitment to telling diverse, meaningful stories - and done with some INCREDIBLE humor - is so refreshing. Also, Taika Waititi as Blackbeard is *chef's kiss*. It may have it's flaws, but it's so heartwarming, hilarious, creative, and better than I ever could've anticipated that I don't even care. If you want to experience pure joy, this show is it.
It's funny!
aciarleglio-17 March 2022
I guess some people don't love this type of comedy. Maybe they don't understand the jokes, who knows? After reading the reviews I was on the fence whether to watch or not. Then I thought I'm not going to trust other peoples opinions, so I watched and laughed... and laughed! I think the show is very funny. Can't wait to watch more! It's quirky characters/ship's crew are all really funny in this high seas tale of adventures and shenanigans!
It's really got everything.
aufo-912816 January 2023
This 'comedy'- is indeed very funny at times- but it is also dark.
There is sweetness that is quite moving as well as shocking violence you don't always expect.
This first series deals very well with the human internal struggles under the pressure to be something you're not.
It is also witty and humorous.
Once I began watching I had to binge the series. I had to find out what happened next.
Looking forward to series 2 very much.
If you have seen the wonderful Jojo Rabbit or What we do in the shadows- you know what it's going to be like- sort of.
This man must be one of the most talented film makers of our time.
If you haven't seen it-I recommend 'The hunt for the Wilder people'.
It is superb.
There is sweetness that is quite moving as well as shocking violence you don't always expect.
This first series deals very well with the human internal struggles under the pressure to be something you're not.
It is also witty and humorous.
Once I began watching I had to binge the series. I had to find out what happened next.
Looking forward to series 2 very much.
If you have seen the wonderful Jojo Rabbit or What we do in the shadows- you know what it's going to be like- sort of.
This man must be one of the most talented film makers of our time.
If you haven't seen it-I recommend 'The hunt for the Wilder people'.
It is superb.
Not as dumb as I thought
dlynn-345898 March 2022
Beautifully Queer
Swampbeard25 March 2022
As a queer person this show hits all the right marks and perfectly shows the queer experience through pirates. The characters are loveable and it kept me invested throughout the show. Some may not like this show because it is so queer, but those people don't have to watch it, and this is the perfect show for young queer people trying to figure themselves out along with the characters. I do pray for season 2 and am excited to see where this love story leads.
Worth watching!
birdsnestfern17 November 2023
The range of comedy on this show is extraordinary. It's got dark humor, lighthearted jokes, funny situations, improvisation, everything! I loved that even during difficult moments, it was possible to find a laugh somewhere; humor done right can be really healing. The characters are lovable, flawed, and constantly growing in unexpected ways, so it never gets boring. Of course, given the all-star cast and crew (pun intended), it's not surprising OFMD is this perfect. It felt like watching a happily dysfunctional group of family and friends onscreen. Best of all, you can tell the writers care about their audience; they earned my trust by treating tough topics with playfulness and grace, and offering hope when I needed it most. It's one of the most comforting stories I've watched in a long time.
Not to Everyone's Taste -
lghedges3 March 2022
I really enjoyed the first 3 episodes. The story is just getting started at this point which I guess is why they released 3 straight away.
The characterisation is great! Darby is a gem and the crew all have their quirks and perks. Each character has their own little story going on and after 3 episodes I am already attached to most!
The comedy is classic Taika Waititi which is not to everyones taste but true love for me.
Cinematography is good for a HBO comedy, and the music is of course well suited.
I hops this show does well, but then it is not to everyones taste and I can see why. It's silly and fun but that's good enough for me!
The characterisation is great! Darby is a gem and the crew all have their quirks and perks. Each character has their own little story going on and after 3 episodes I am already attached to most!
The comedy is classic Taika Waititi which is not to everyones taste but true love for me.
Cinematography is good for a HBO comedy, and the music is of course well suited.
I hops this show does well, but then it is not to everyones taste and I can see why. It's silly and fun but that's good enough for me!
FUNNY !!
jennfinn27 March 2022
Obviously Our Flag Means Death isn't historically accurate and that's because IT'S NOT SUPPOSED TO BE. It's a comedy for Christ sakes, people writing reviews really need to lighten up.
Every time I see Rhys Darby I think of him as Steve from the TBS show Wrecked which was really funny. He plays Stede Bonnet, the gentleman pirate who left his wife and children to become a pirate. Taika Waititi plays legendary pirate, Blackbeard and I now have a huge crush on him.
Every time I see Rhys Darby I think of him as Steve from the TBS show Wrecked which was really funny. He plays Stede Bonnet, the gentleman pirate who left his wife and children to become a pirate. Taika Waititi plays legendary pirate, Blackbeard and I now have a huge crush on him.
You need to binge it.
michellesharpe-1694324 March 2022
I spent the first two weeks watching this show not knowing where it was going. Now that I've watched the entire season, I am more emotionally invested in this show than I've been for a long time. Every character shines onscreen and the chemistry between them all is a delight to watch.
Rhys Darby and Taika Waititi acted their hearts out in those final episodes.
I need a second season right now. HBO cannot leave it there.
Rhys Darby and Taika Waititi acted their hearts out in those final episodes.
I need a second season right now. HBO cannot leave it there.
Funny, smart, weird, wonderful.
Sleepin_Dragon1 April 2023
Stede Bonnet leaves behind a life of property and luxury for a life on The Open Sea, a life of Piracy, his world is thrown upside down when he encounters the infamous Blackbeard.
It may take an episode or two for you to get it, and work out what's happening, but if you're unsure early on, I urge you to stick with it, it really is the most magical show. It's funny and weird in equal measure, the humour comes from the absurdity of it.
It's a show the family would enjoy, admittedly a family that has a chilled out attitude when it comes to bad language that is.
It defies every single pre conceived stereotype of what many think of when they think of pirates, if you don't think it'll happen, expect to see it here.
The characters are all magical, aside from the main players, the laughs will keep coming from Izzy Hands, The Swede, Buttons, they're a wonderful, amusing bunch.
Rhys Darby is an absolute joy as The Gentleman Pirate, he is equally matched by Taika Waititi, I could watch him in anything, the pair are phenomenal.
I'm counting down for the start of Series 2.
9/10.
It may take an episode or two for you to get it, and work out what's happening, but if you're unsure early on, I urge you to stick with it, it really is the most magical show. It's funny and weird in equal measure, the humour comes from the absurdity of it.
It's a show the family would enjoy, admittedly a family that has a chilled out attitude when it comes to bad language that is.
It defies every single pre conceived stereotype of what many think of when they think of pirates, if you don't think it'll happen, expect to see it here.
The characters are all magical, aside from the main players, the laughs will keep coming from Izzy Hands, The Swede, Buttons, they're a wonderful, amusing bunch.
Rhys Darby is an absolute joy as The Gentleman Pirate, he is equally matched by Taika Waititi, I could watch him in anything, the pair are phenomenal.
I'm counting down for the start of Series 2.
9/10.
Truly delightful
drprofessorsong30 March 2022
From the start of the show, I was enamored by the quirky cast if characters. Hilarious and slightly awkward, you think you have a handle on what to expect from the opening scenes, but this show will surprise you. From really touching and beautiful character moments to truly complex characters who don't feel like the same old tropes, this show delivers. Throw in an incredible cast (and some delightful guest stars), absolutely beautiful cinematography and effects and Impeccable costuming, and this is one of the best new shows in years.
Hilarious
annhubbard-9566720 March 2022
For those who dont get it. This show is loaded with situational, parody, physical, and farcical comedy. If it doesn't make you at least giggle, go to a playground and watch children play. Listen to their laughter. Watch kitten videos. Warm your cold, dead heart.
Brilliant performances, great writing, some cringe. But I find it delightful.
Brilliant performances, great writing, some cringe. But I find it delightful.
HBO's Our Flag Means Death is a hilarious look at pirate life on the high seas.
romanrobinsoninvestments3 March 2022
A light-hearted comedy that at times offers thoughtful, touching moments. The ensemble grouped into one scene have great comedic moments that will make you laugh. These first three episodes made me think of Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) and the Police Squad gang. The Naked Gun crew also pulled off multiple funny moments within one scene. There are only three episodes available on HBO, but it should be enough to get you laughing. - Damian @TalkTeaV.
A few red flags, but overall...
blametaker7718 April 2022
Funny, original, weird, but one issue....
Laight26 March 2022
This has got to be one of the strangest, most original shows to make it to tv in a while. It's wildly creative and well-written with humor so offbeat you don't often realize you're watching humor. However.... the strangest part of this show is that its set up, instead of being maybe, say, the first ten minutes, actually takes up the entire first two episodes. You have to get to the third episode to understand what the show is going to be about. So, be patient, get past episodes one and two, and then get ready for a wild and weird ride.
Not nearly as funny as "What We Do In The Shadows", but still pretty funny! 😀
stevebondi8 March 2022
Rhys Darby has been always funny, since I first saw him as the talent agent in "Flight of the Concords". And many other funny actors pop up throughout, so you will get some good laughs :-) However, the writing is just not as consistently funny as "What We Do In The Shadows" (for which Taika Waitit is also a creator).
I did not see that coming. At all.
Skye_0716 September 2023
When I started watching "Our Flag Means Death" I didn't expect to discover a jewel of a tv series.
Historical accuracy? We don't need it and don't miss it. Details such as crocs and studded belts make it more unique and fun blending perfectly with the comic tones of the series. But behind the irony and comedy, very important topics are dealt with without ever falling into stereotypes revealing script and human work rarely seen on screen.
Special mention must also be made of the cast, who demonstrated perfect chemistry on and off the set giving the characters that extra something that makes you grow fond of them from the first moment.
Historical accuracy? We don't need it and don't miss it. Details such as crocs and studded belts make it more unique and fun blending perfectly with the comic tones of the series. But behind the irony and comedy, very important topics are dealt with without ever falling into stereotypes revealing script and human work rarely seen on screen.
Special mention must also be made of the cast, who demonstrated perfect chemistry on and off the set giving the characters that extra something that makes you grow fond of them from the first moment.
See also
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